We are a Christian compassion organisation dedicated to restoring hope to Filipino children and their families who live in poverty. This is achieved through programmes of compassion that minister to people's basic needs.
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Astrobal Reyes lives with his mother, brother and sister in an urban poor community in Metro Manila, Philippines. Astrobal's father died some years ago, when he was drowned in a flood caused by a typhoon. The Reyes family live side-by-side with other poor families on a piece of waste ground in a 'shanty' made from scrap wood and plastic salvaged from around the community. When Hands of Mercy staff befriended the family their home was unstable, full of holes and cracks and prone to leaks and flooding. Through the Home Improvement Programme the foundation of their home was concreted over and unstable structures, such as the walls and roof, replaced with more durable materials. Every day Astrobal helps his mother scavenge. From 8pm until 3am they push a cart around the dirty streets of Metro Manila searching for discarded plastic bottles, cans and boxes to sell. Most days they are able to earn the equivalent of £2 which helps them to buy rice and noodles or dried fish and eggs for their meals. Their very small income allows them to buy only basic food items, so Hands of Mercy provides them with monthly food assistance through the Family Support Programme. Because of the support Hands of Mercy is giving the family, Astrobal will soon feel able to return to school to complete his high school education as a beneficiary of the Child Sponsorship Programme.

Even though the hardships remain for the Reyes family, their outlook on life has radically changed since receiving help from Hands of Mercy. Astrobal and his mother are regular members of Mercy Community Church, where Astrobal plays the bongos as part of the worship team.

There are thousands of other children in the Philippines who are trapped in poverty, who, unlike Astrobal, have yet to discover the life changing difference Christian compassion can make. By supporting the Child Sponsorship Programme, you can give a desperately needy child the start to a new life and a new hope for the future through help with an education and health needs.

For £12 a month, you will have the opportunity to develop a meaningful and long lasting relationship with your sponsored child. The child you sponsor will know your name, will write to you, and benefit directly from your sponsorship as you take an active role in his or her growth and development.

Your sponsorship will enable your sponsored child to receive help with:

• Education
• Health Care
• Personal and Character Development
• Christian Discipleship